Picture Source: www.thyssenkrupp-marinesystems.com
German shipbuilder Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) has introduced a fresh pitch to equip the Indian Navy with an advanced variant of its HDW Class 214 submarine.
Emphasizing new technologies, technology transfer, and indigenisation, the move aligns with India’s self-reliance agenda and leverages the navy’s successful operation of tkMS’s Class 209/1500 submarines.
Technological Advancements and Competitive Edge
TkMS faces competition from Spanish shipbuilder Navantia, which has proposed its S-80 submarine for the ₹43,000-crore P-75I programme. This project aims to build six advanced submarines with air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems in partnership with local shipyards. AIP technology significantly enhances underwater endurance and reduces detection risk.
India’s hunt for new attack submarines is nearing a critical juncture, with the navy finalizing its technical report on the recent field evaluation trials of the HDW Class 214 and S-80 submarines. These trials primarily focused on evaluating their AIP systems.
“Technically, we are in a strong position. tkMS fully demonstrated the AIP system during the trials in March. We will transfer the submarine’s design and technology to India, supporting the goal of self-reliance,” said tkMS India CEO Khalil Rahman at a media briefing.
Strategic Collaborations and Custom Solutions
TkMS has partnered with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) for the P-75I project, while Navantia has teamed with Larsen & Toubro. The evaluation of the S-80’s AIP system took place at a shipyard in Cartagena in June, showcasing its surface performance, with submerged trials scheduled soon.
Rahman emphasized the customization of the tkMS platform to meet the Indian Navy’s specific needs. “Our submarine will feature an angular design for enhanced stealth and a new lithium-ion battery system to improve underwater endurance at higher speeds. A combination of AIP and lithium-ion battery will significantly boost the submarine’s operational capabilities,” he explained.
Project Timeline and Indigenisation Targets
The P-75I project requires that the first submarine achieve a minimum of 45% indigenous content, increasing to 60% by the sixth submarine. Despite the project’s complexity, the first submarine is expected to be delivered seven years after the contract award, with subsequent deliveries at one-year intervals.
Both tkMS and Navantia have committed to meeting India’s technology transfer requirements and indigenous content stipulations, in line with New Delhi’s goal of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Government Support and Historical Context
Initially reluctant to bid for the Indian Navy’s mega deal due to “terms and conditions,” tkMS decided to participate following support from the German government.
Khalil Rahman explained that the decision was influenced by a geopolitical shift after the invasion of Ukraine, highlighting the importance of a deeper partnership with India. “Initially, we decided not to bid due to the commercial terms outlined in the Request for Proposal (RFP). However, with the German government’s backing, these issues were resolved. The German government historically regards India as a key market and partner,” Rahman noted.
TkMS’s AIP system, which incorporates both fuel cell and lithium-ion technologies, offers balanced performance with long-range endurance at low speeds and high-speed capabilities. The German government is also expected to take a stake in tkMS, further solidifying the strategic partnership.
Future Prospects and High-Level Talks
The submarine deal will feature prominently in upcoming high-level discussions between India and Germany. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz is scheduled to visit India for inter-governmental consultations, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Spain in the coming months.
Navantia’s proposal is based on its new S80 class of submarines, with L&T responsible for construction. The AIP module significantly enhances the endurance and stealth of conventional submarines, providing a critical advantage in modern naval warfare.
Since World War II, tkMS has built 175 submarines, with 52 AIP-equipped submarines currently in operation or under contract worldwide, underscoring the company’s extensive experience and expertise in submarine manufacturing.
